Washington state port to build rail spur

The Port of Everett's commission authorized bids for a $3 million, 2,500 foot-long rail spur that would connect the port's piers and other facilities to BNSF's main line. Work could begin as early as April and be completed by September.

The port will be responsible for 25 percent of the project's funds through low- and no-interest loans from the state DOT, but much of the money will come from $1.2 million in federal funds for rail recovery, secured by Sen. Patty Murray, D-Wash.